Thanks to researchers studying the largest collection of Galapagos bird species specimens in the world, we might have a new extinction species.

Currently listed as two subspecies of Vermilion Flycatchers, the Isabela and San Cristobal Vermilion Flycatchers, would seem to warrant being deemed their own species.

While the San Cristobal Vermilion Flycatcher hasn't been spotted since the late 1980s, being a subspecies extinction wasn't as big a cause for concern as it would be for a full blown unique species.

It is believed that rats and parasitic flies were to blame for the demise of the bird, as these invasive species are currently posing a threat to other endangered Galapagos birds.

But, birders may still have hope. If the San Cristobal Vermilion Flycatcher is indeed now a new species, it may be reason to do a study and try to determine once and for all if the bird really is extinct. Until now, no major search or effort has been done to see if the bird is truly extinct...it may still be living in some isolated pockets in the highlands of San Cristobal Island. Perhaps they're still out there somewhere?

To read more about this story, visit: phys.org/news/2016-08-gal225pagos-first-ever-bird-extinction